Embracing Motherhood: Finding Fulfillment in the Everyday

In today’s world of social media, there’s an overwhelming pressure on mothers to constantly entertain their children. Instagram is filled with posts and reels showcasing endless activities, crafts, and outings designed to keep little ones engaged from morning until night. While there’s nothing wrong with wanting to enrich our children’s lives, this constant need to stimulate can leave us feeling drained and exhausted by the end of the day. 

One unforgettable moment was when my mom visited and I was griping about the sink full of dishes and the pile of laundry waiting to be folded. Although, to be fair, the laundry was already washed. Am I the only one who deals with this? I had already set up the playpen and kept going back and forth to play with my son. My mom glanced at the playpen and casually suggested, "Ashley, put him in there with some toys, set a timer for 10 minutes, and go fold the laundry." A wave of anxiety washed over me as I hesitated, thinking I couldn't possibly leave him alone for 10 minutes. I felt the need to entertain him constantly throughout the day, which left me completely empty that by the time he went to bed, I found myself couch rotting, mindlessly scrolling through Instagram, looking for more ways to engage with my baby.

But what if motherhood didn’t have to be so overwhelming? What if, instead of trying to fill every moment with entertainment for our children, we found ways to include them in the activities that bring us joy? This shift in perspective can turn the daily grind into something much more fulfilling. I slowly learned this when my second child was born. I felt more confident in my ability to mother and was no longer consumed by worries about her well-being. I was just present. I was able to find a sense of balance without feeling guilty. I found balance in a way that I never felt guilty. She would do her tummy time on the kitchen floor as I loaded the dishwasher. Most times, I would put her down for naps in the bassinet, but when I craved extra snuggles, I would let her contact nap while I caught up on Real Housewives.

Engaging my children in daily activities, including chores, has fostered a sense of unity within our family. We all understood the household dynamics and made contributions, even my husband. He now refrains from letting me load the dishwasher because he believes I don't do it correctly... his loss. One of my son's favorite parts of his day is checking on the garden. When I first started gardening, I felt as thought I had an extra task to complete in their absence. Instead, I now integrate it into our shared routine. My son helps me pick vegetables, and together, we spend time outside, soaking in the fresh air and learning about the world around us. It’s a simple activity, yet it brings so much joy—not just for me, but for my him as well.

Incorporating your children into the things you love doesn’t just relieve the pressure to entertain; it also allows them to learn from you in a natural, meaningful way. They see your passion and, in turn, develop a love for the things you hold dear. It’s a win-win situation, where both mother and child grow and thrive together.

Motherhood doesn’t have to mean losing yourself in the process of raising your children. By finding and embracing the things that fulfill you—and sharing those experiences with your kids—you can enjoy your role as a mother while also staying true to yourself. In doing so, you not only nurture your children but also set an example of a balanced, fulfilling life.

So, the next time you feel the weight of entertaining your child every minute of the day, take a step back and consider how you can include them in what you already love. You might find that both you and your children are happier, more fulfilled, and better connected because of it.

XO,

Ashley